Nollywood filmmaker Funke Akindele has taken to social media to share an inspiring message with young creatives, urging them to remain resilient in their pursuit of success.
In a video posted on her Instagram and Twitter pages, Akindele reflected on her growth and the struggles she faced on her way to stardom. She acknowledged that while her journey was not always smooth, the hard work and perseverance were worthwhile.
“My journey to success wasn’t always pretty, but it was worth it! I’m proud to have come from a place of hustle and hard work, and I really hope to inspire the young creatives out there to keep pushing forward. Even when the road gets tough, never give up on your dreams!” she wrote.
The post, which was accompanied by a montage showcasing her evolution in the entertainment industry, resonated with fans and aspiring creatives, many of whom praised her for her unwavering dedication.
A day prior, Akindele attended the premiere of Iyabo Ojo’s movie, Labake Olododo, where she discussed her fashion choice for the event. She noted that her outfit represented her personal and professional evolution, stating:
“I am spreading my wings and evolving into the best version of myself. I embrace positive vibes, growth, and transformation.”
Her recent remarks add to a series of candid reflections on her journey. Last week, while speaking at the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN) 2025, Akindele made it clear that her rise to fame was self-made, attributing her success solely to God.
“Nobody made me a star, only God did,” she declared, recalling how the idea for her Jenifa brand came to her and how she independently worked on her scripts. She also revealed that someone in the industry once advised her to continue maximizing the potential of the Jenifa brand and even provided financial support for her projects.
Akindele has been open about the challenges she faced in her early career, including industry stereotypes. In a past interview, she credited Iyabo Ojo and Sikiratu Sindodo for standing up for her when she was discriminated against due to her looks.
Despite these struggles, the actress has emerged as a dominant force in Nollywood. She currently holds the title of Queen of the Box Office, with her latest film, Everybody Loves Jenifa, becoming the highest-grossing movie of all time in West Africa, raking in ₦1.6 billion. This surpasses her previous record with A Tribe Called Judah, which grossed ₦1.4 billion.
Akindele’s relentless work ethic continues to inspire many. However, she recently refuted claims that she never takes a break. In response to a Twitter user who stated that her hustle is so intense that it motivates others to keep working, the actress clarified:
“I rest well.”
Funke Akindele’s journey remains a beacon of inspiration for young creatives, proving that resilience, hard work, and faith can pave the way for success.
